ABSTRACT
This chapter stresses the impact and meaning of education in realizing the important ethnopolitical goals leading to the restoration of Sami autonomy. It examines various aspects of the system of education and socialization toward career opportunities available to the Sami. The Sami reactions and initiatives outlined above gradually have improved the level of education, making it possible for the Sami to develop adequate bi-cultural competence. Integration of the Sami school system into its community appears to be a key concept in this transformation. Sami schools should promote both general and special cultural competence and knowledge, for such an integrated orientation permits the Sami culture and language to develop and change dynamically, while at the same time maintaining its cultural peculiarity. The attempt to integrate the school into the local community is the latest standard plan for the Norwegian schools. This innovative proposition opens a new avenue to the Sami, strengthening the specific curriculum in their schools.
